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It said: “We are absolutely devastated to announce the passing of Jay McLaren. All our thoughts are with Jay’s fiancé, daughter, family and friends at this extremely sad time. RIP Jay - you will never be forgotten.”

And the league will be donating all proceeds from this season’s cup finals to Jay’s family.

Lawson Rutherford said: “That is a great gesture. He was a quality player and will be a big miss to football team, family and friends as well.”

While Paul Tunstall added: “Jay was our captain and great lad too. He loved his football; his passion and leadership will be sorely missed. RIP Mac.”

Jay lived at Hadleigh Road in the Hylton Lane area of Sunderland and worked as a machine adjuster at Encore Envelopes, a printing company.

He was reported missing on Saturday after he failed to return home following a night out on Black Eye Friday, in Sunderland.

Police say they do not believe anyone else was involved in his death.

However, officers are appealing to the public to help piece together his last movements.

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A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: “While it is believed there was no third party involvement, police are seeking information from the public to help trace Jay’s last movements.

“The last confirmed sighting of Jay is at 4.15am on Saturday, December 23 outside Arizona and Purple bar. From here, he is understood to have been taken to the recycling plant after entering a bin that was later collected in the early hours of December 23.

Jay’s heartbroken family have also issued a message to other festive drinkers, via police.

The spokeswoman added: “Jay’s family are being supported by specialist officers and wish to send a message to drinkers and party-goers to stay safe on a night out, particularly as New Year’s Eve approaches.

“They’re urging people to stay together and keep an eye out for friends.”

Police are now asking anyone who believes they may have seen or spoken to Jay in the early hours of Saturday to call 101 quoting 1205 231217.